Police and fire fighters set up a giving tree with gift tags, asking the community to become Santa's helpers for eight families needing some Christmas magic this year.

So many gifts came flooding in that they started running out of room at the safety complex. Auburn police and firefighters said they have the situation under control now but that the gifts intended for nearly two dozen children were overflowing.

“We took over a couple offices of some of our officials here in the station,” said Melissa Gates, a dispatcher for the Auburn Police Department. “We took over a couple stairwells.”

“I never realized there would be this many toys. We had to move a truck over and make more room,” said Auburn firefighter Patrick Glennon.

“Every room of the police department had toys and gift wrapping it's really amazing to see what can happen when the community comes together,” said Auburn Police Officer Kevin Cashman.

“It's a tough time of year, and it's tough to ask for help and we want them to know that we support them,” said Gates.

Police officers and firefighters were surprised when they saw the children's lists, which contained basic needs like coats and socks. But with this generosity, they said the children will get so much more.

“They're going to get a lot of special treats. I feel giddy just thinking about it,” said Gates.

“The town really came through in a way we never expected,” said Gates.

The gifts will be delivered in the next few days from Auburn's giving tree to under trees around town come Christmas morning.